Health & Benefits
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What if I don't have a power of attorney for health care?
If you do not have a power of attorney for health care, and you are unable to make decisions for yourself, your family and your doctors may make certain health care decisions for you. The doctor must ask your family and friends about what to do, in the following order:
- Guardian,
- Spouse,
- Adult children,
- Parents,
- Adult Siblings,
- Adult Grandchildren,
- Close family friends,
- Guardian of the estate, and
- Temporary custodian.
You might disagree with the decisions that are made. Or, your family members or friends may not be able to agree on how to handle your medical care. A power of attorney for health care gives you control over how decisions are made for you. The agent you choose must carry out your wishes.
Last full review by a subject matter expert
July 26, 2021
Last revised by staff
July 26, 2021
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Worried about doing this on your own? You may be able to get free legal help.
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